A 6-month-old kitten has tested positive for rabies in northeast Colorado Springs. El Paso County Public Health is urging residents to protect themselves by never touching or feeding wild or stray animals, and keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccination.

A 6-month-old kitten has tested positive for rabies in northeast Colorado Springs. El Paso County Public Health is urging residents to protect themselves by never touching or feeding wild or stray animals, and keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccination.

On February 27, 2015, a kitten tested positive for rabies at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Laboratory. This kitten was a stray that was taken in by a family living near Woodmen and Union boulevards. Further testing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will help determine the type of rabies the kitten had and how it may have been infected.

To date, El Paso County Public Health has identified 20 individuals, including the family, who have possibly been exposed to the rabid kitten. They are being treated with preventive medication – a series of post-exposure vaccinations.

This is the first rabid domestic cat in El Paso County, Colorado, since 1966. In October 2013, a kitten also tested positive for rabies. Further testing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found the 2013 case to be a false positive, and the kitten did not have rabies. Therefore, this year’s case was tested twice to provide additional confirmation.

While rabies has commonly been thought to be an issue in wild animals (such as skunks and bats) there were two other rabid cats in Yuma County, Colorado, in 2014. Signs of rabies in pets include changes in behavior (including drooling, aggression, restlessness and lethargy).
Rabies is fatal once symptoms appear. Never feed or touch stray or wild animals, and keep pets and livestock rabies vaccinations up to date through a licensed veterinarian. Feeding wild animals makes them less afraid of people and brings large numbers of animals into small areas. This increases the risk of transmission of disease to humans and pets. Unvaccinated pets or livestock are at risk of infection, which also puts owners or family members at risk.

Preventive medication is available for people known or suspected to have been bitten by a rabid animal. It is important for people bitten or scratched by a wild animal or an unfamiliar animal to contact their doctor immediately.

Take these precautions to prevent rabies:
• Vaccinate your pets against rabies by using a licensed veterinarian. Rabies shots need to be boosted, so check your pet’s records or talk to your veterinarian.
• When walking or hiking with your dog, protect them and wildlife by keeping your dog on a leash.
• Keep cats and other pets inside at night to reduce the risk of exposure to other domestic animals and wildlife. Keep dogs within your sight (in a fenced yard, or on leash) during the day while outside.
• Contact your veterinarian promptly if you believe your pet has been exposed to a wild animal.
• Do not touch or feed wild animals. Wild animals like skunks and foxes adapt to residential environments if food is available – please don’t leave pet food outdoors.
• If you or a family member is bitten or scratched by a wild or unknown animal, call your doctor and the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (719) 473-1741.
• If you encounter a lost or stray dog or cat, contact the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region for options (719) 473-1741.
• Contact an animal-control or wildlife conservation agency for assistance with “bat-proofing” your home. Information is also available at www.cdc.gov/rabies/bats/management

How to recognize sick or diseased wildlife:
• Healthy wild animals are normally afraid of humans. Foxes are active at night but can also be seen out during the day, especially if they are looking for food for their pups.
• Sick or diseased animals often do not run away when spotted by people.
• Wildlife suffering from rabies will often act aggressively and violently approach people or pets.
• However, sometimes rabid animals are overly quiet and passive and want to hide. If they are hiding, leave them alone. Rabid wildlife might also stumble or have trouble walking.
• Report sick or diseased animals to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife at (719) 227-5200.

Rabies is a viral disease than infects the brain and other parts of the central nervous system, causing brain swelling and damage, and ultimately, death. Rabies is spread primarily through the bite of rabid animals, resulting in the spread of the disease through their infected saliva. Rabies also can be spread when saliva from an infected animal gets into open wounds, cuts or enters through membranes of the eyes, nose, or mouth.

If you already know the basics and are ready for the next level of Quickbooks, this class will build on that foundation to teach you more advanced processes within the software. This interactive course will cover: 1. Credit card accounts and transactions; how to create and track asset and liability accounts; and an introduction to equity accounts; 2. Sales and purchase forms; how to create a new invoice; the QuickBooks Item list and how to add new items; how to create invoice letters & sales orders; and how to track backorders; 3. How to record customer payments; how to handle customer discounts, partial payments, overpayments, or down payments; how to record a deposit, including cash back; how to process credit cards 4. Financial data tools: QuickReports, preset reports, and graphs; how to save reports in Excel or PDF format.

Websites are central to your business online marketing strategy. Join us for this hands on workshop on driving leads with a well-structured website. The session will also cover bogging as a means to gain visibility, increase credibility in your industry and drive leads to your business.

This class is for the advanced QuickBooks user with a product business in need to track inventory, sales tax, estimates, payroll, and time per project. This interactive session will cover: How to get an overview of inventory, use purchase orders and track the receipt of inventory, make manual inventory adjustments and set up units of measure. It will give an overview of sales tax rates and agencies, how to track sales tax and how to apply sales tax to a sale, how to determine sales tax liability and review activities. You will get an overview of payroll and how to setup: payroll, employee information, schedules, paychecks, and tax liabilities. You will learn how to create job estimates and progress invoicing, create duplicate estimates, create invoices from an estimate, and updating job status as well as how to track time worked on a project, how to invoice a customer from tracked time, create project reports, track time worked by owners or partners, and pay nonemployees for time worked and how to modify the format of an invoice, design a custom invoice form, prepare a collection letter and edit prewritten letters in QuickBooks.

Taking the first step to starting your business can be difficult! This workshop will be a realistic starting point for all budding entrepreneurs. The hour and a half workshop will be PACKED and FAST PACED. At the end, you will have a good feel for the level of effort and commitment it will take to make your business successful. If you’re serious about starting a business, you don’t want to miss this workshop. This will be a Lunch 'n Learn...Feel free to bring your lunch!!

Wednesday, March 25 & Thursday, March 26
The Right-Brain Business Plan®Time: March 25 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. March 26 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.
Cost: $299 portion of fees supports SBDC and their programming Cost also includes admission to the April 9 Executive Session at the SBDC Offices
Location: SBDC - 1675 Garden of the Gods Road, Suite 1107, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
To Register: https://clients.coloradosbdc.org/workshop.aspx?ekey=70350041
This day and a half workshop fun and interactive is perfect for you if…

• You don’t have a business plan and know you need one
• You've tried to do a business plan the "traditional way" and you got stuck, overwhelmed, and demotivated
• You have a business plan, but need to breathe new life into it
• You can't stand spreadsheets
• Numbers numb you out
• You’d be a heck of a lot happier planning your business in the same intuitive, authentic, and expressive way that you live your creative life (yes, indeed, it can be that fun and fulfilling!)
Finally get your business plan done and have fun doing it with this creative and visual approach.

*Includes a copy of The Right-Brain Business Plan by Jennifer Lee, a kit with an illustrated card deck and supplies to create your own Right-Brain Business Plan® Cost also includes admission to the April 9 Executive Session at the SBDC Offices

The Small Business Development Center is hosted by El Paso County and located at the El Paso County Citizens Service Center. The SBDC is also sponsored by UCCS College of Business, the U.S. Small Business Administration, City of Colorado Springs and CenturyLink. It offers business consulting and training to assist existing and new small businesses in El Paso, Park and Teller counties. For more information about the SBDC and services it offers, visit www.cssbdc.org or call 719-667-3803.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced today the apparent successful proposing team of Kraemer North America, LLC (Kraemer) and Tsiouvaras Simmons Holderness (TSH) to reconstruct the Interstate 25/Cimarron interchange.

At $116.1 million, this will be the second largest highway construction project in the Pikes Peak region since COSMIX (Colorado Springs Metropolitan Expansion) – the reconstruction of I-25, was completed in 2008. More than 150,000 vehicles travel through the interchange daily, making it one of the region’s busiest.

Contractor team selection was a lengthy process, with three teams shortlisted in May 2014. The shortlisted teams were then asked to provide proposals through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process. In addition to Kraemer/TSH, proposals were received from the teams of Flatiron Constructors, Inc./Figg Engineering Group, and Parsons Corporation/Wildcat Construction Co., Inc.

“All the proposals were incredibly thorough, creative and exceeded the expectations of the established project goals,” said CDOT Regional Transportation Director Karen Rowe. “In the end, and following a rigorous selection process, it came down to the team with the best technical proposal and the one providing the most improvement for the interchange and the surrounding transportation network. Any of the three teams would do an outstanding job for us, but one emerged as the frontrunner in this area because they provided the best value and response for meeting the project’s goals.”

Those goals are:
1. Maximize overall safety, capacity and operation of the interchange and the surrounding transportation network within the Project budget.
2. Complete project construction to be fully operational by December 1, 2017.
3. Minimize impacts and inconvenience to the community, motorists, businesses, downtown and the public during construction.
4. Achieve an aesthetically-pleasing design compatible with current and future amenities and enhancements in and around the interchange.

Once a contract with the Kraemer/TSH team is finalized, a Notice to Proceed will be issued, and design work will get underway. A ground breaking marking the start of construction is expected this spring. One of the requirements of CDOT and project stakeholders is the project be operationally complete by Dec. 1, 2017.

“This is a complicated project,” added Rowe. “Construction will impact numerous citizens, businesses, industries, and community interests. CDOT has stressed through the project goals that while meeting the completion date is important, so is minimizing impacts.”

Construction will begin west of I-25, with utility relocation, and bridge and embankment work. The intent is to complete as much work as possible prior to significantly impacting traffic along I-25 in early 2016.

“The design-build contractor selection process required a tremendous amount of work and interaction between the project partners of the Federal Highway Administration, the City of Colorado Springs, El Paso County, the state Transportation Commission, CDOT and numerous community stakeholders,” said Rowe. “It was a long, but successful process to reach this milestone.”

Funding is from a variety of federal, state and local sources, including:
• CDOT Responsible Acceleration of Maintenance and Partnerships (RAMP) funds
• CDOT Regional Priority Program (RPP) funds
• CDOT Bridge Replacement, FASTER Safety and Resurfacing funds
• City of Colorado Springs local match funds
• El Paso County local match funds

Edward Kraemer & Sons, Inc., (Kraemer) is a privately held general contractor with more than 100 years of highway and bridge construction experience headquartered in Plain, Wisconsin. Its Colorado regional office is located in Castle Rock. The company has successfully constructed numerous major infrastructure projects throughout Colorado including the Powers Boulevard Design-Build project, Woodmen Road widening and Woodmen/Academy Blvd. interchange project, Denver US 6 Bridges reconstruction project, Idaho Springs Westbound I-70 Twin Tunnels reconstruction project, Dotsero “green” bridge replacement project on the I-70 frontage road over the Colorado River, and Castle Rock I-25/US-85 connection project, to name a few.

Tsiouvaras Simmons Holderness (TSH) is a Colorado-based engineering design firm founded in 2005 to serve the Colorado Transportation industry. TSH currently has 60 employees who work exclusively in Colorado on transportation projects providing bridge, highway, traffic and hydraulic design along with construction management services. The firm has successfully completed several large complex projects in Colorado including Powers Boulevard Design-Build, Denver Peña Blvd. Bridges and US285 construction projects, I-70/Dotsero Interchange, Denver’s I-25/Speer to 20th/15th Street Bridge reconstruction, and Trinidad I-25 Viaduct, to name a few.

Take a 3-6 mile hike on this recently extended trail and learn about the trail’s significance to the historical Ute population with other active adults. The trail gains a total of 1300 ft. in elevation; moderate to difficult. Call for directions to the trail head. $2 per member. $3 per non member. Cash only.

Experience the nature center and park after hours! Following a hot dog cook out, children ages 6-10 (without adult) will explore the trails, learn about what animals call Bear Creek home, make a craft, enjoy a puppet show and more! $17 per member. $20 per non member.

Little Wonders: Frolicking Foxes

Thursday, March 26, 9-10:15 a.m.

Discover the world of nature with your 2 or 3 year-old. Interactive activities and a short hike make this the perfect introduction to the outdoors for your child. ($3/person including adults & siblings, reservations required, 520-6387)

Geocachnig Workshop

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Learn all about the techy outdoor sport known as geocaching from the Geocaching Colorado experts. Bring your own GPS or borrow one of ours. New caches will be hidden in the park for you to find! $4 per member, $5 per non member.

Sustainability Series: Soil-The Foundation of a Successful Garden

Saturday, March 28, 1-2 p.m.

Presented by Colorado Master Gardener Joan Nusbaum. Research shows that 80% of plant problems can be traced to poor soil conditions. Come learn about soil and soil amendments and find out what you can do to improve the most important part of your garden. $10 per person.

Children ages 3-6, with an adult, will enjoy puppet show or stories, crafts, hands-on activities, and discovery time on the trail. ($3.00 for each participant including adults and siblings, reservations required, 520-6745.)

Get Wild With The Ellicott Wildlife Rehabilitators

Saturday, March 7, 10-11 a.m.

Join us for a 45 minute presentation followed by a questions and answers with the rehabilitators as they discuss their wildlife rehab program and how people can help the wildlife they find. Educational ambassador Red-Tail Hawk, Nate will assist the presentation and answer questions! $3/member, $4/non-member. Reservations required, 719-520-6745

Twos & Threes Outdoors

Busy Beavers: Thursday, March 12, 9-10:15 a.m.

Share in the joy of your 2 or 3 year-old child’s discovery as he or she enjoys a story and an exploration hike outdoors. ($3.00 for each participant including adults and siblings, reservations required, 520-6745.)

Clerk’s Office Notification: Recording Transactions Will Be Unavailable March 21

[Colorado Springs, Colo. – February 25, 2015] The Recording Department of the El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office will not be able to service customers on Saturday, March 21 due to a planned system upgrade. This temporary disruption in service will affect Colorado residents seeking to obtain marriage licenses, record documents, or access records on March 21.

“We take our commitment to provide peerless customer service to the citizens of El Paso County seriously,” stated Chuck Broerman, Clerk and Recorder. “While this pre-planned event is about a month away, we wanted to start getting the word out now so citizens can make plans accordingly.”

The El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office is the only Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Colorado that operates an office on Saturdays. The Saturday office hours allows citizens the flexibility to use the motor vehicle, driver’s license, and recording services outside of the normal business week. Since its launch, the Saturday service has proved popular with the citizens of El Paso County.

All motor vehicle and driver’s licenses services still will be available on Saturday, March 21. All recording and other Clerk and Recorder services will be available again on Monday, March 23.

Reminder Press Releases will be sent out periodically between now and March 21.

El Paso County Parks is hosting a series of informational parks and trails meetings in four geographic locations during the month of March. The meetings will provide the public an opportunity to meet the local Parks Supervisors and hear current updates and information on their area parks and trails.

“These meetings are great opportunities for the public to come together and find out what’s been happening and what the current plans are for their local parks,” said Brad Bixler, Parks Operations Manager.

El Paso County, CO, February 24, 2015 – The Board of El Paso County Commissioners marked the retirement George Diestelkamp at its regular meeting on Thursday, February 19.

Mr. Diestelkamp began his El Paso County career in 1988 in the Facilities Management Department as a Plans and Records Specialist where he took on duties as the County’s architectural draftsman and introduced the County to its first AutoCAD work station. He was promoted to Plans and Records Supervisor in 1997, to El Paso County Property Manager in 2000, to Deputy Director of Facilities Management in 2007 and assumed management responsibilities for the Infrastructure Planning section in 2010.

“His expertise, professionalism and attention to detail have been major contributing factors in the successful completion of more than $106 million in critical infrastructure projects including 15 major construction projects and numerous smaller projects which have resulted in improved operational efficiencies, greater energy efficiency in county buildings and more efficient delivery of county government services to El Paso citizens,” said Commissioner Chair Dennis Hisey as he read the proclamation into the record. “Mr. Diestelkamp has been instrumental in the timely and efficient completion of landmark projects with a lasting impact on El Paso County and its citizens.”

“I’ve see a lot of changes in the County,” Mr. Diestelkamp said. “It’s my passion and it’s what I've enjoyed doing.”

County employees thanked Mr. Diestelkamp for his efforts and praised his hard work and dedication.

“We’ve done at least 15 big construction projects and many smaller ones. George handled all the details,” said Monnie Gore, El Paso County Deputy County Administrator. “He hit the mark on every project, on time and on budget.”

El Paso County, CO, February 24, 2015 – The Board of El Paso County Commissioners marked the retirement of Jim Tackett at its regular meeting on Thursday, February 19.

Mr. Tackett began his career with El Paso County in 1988 as Assistant Veteran Services Officer to help veterans and surviving spouses with completing disability claims. He was appointed the El Paso County Veteran Services Officer in 2008, and immediately began an expanded outreach program to ensure El Paso County veterans are aware of local veteran services and programs. Mr. Tackett has received numerous awards for his outstanding efforts to serve local veterans over the past twenty-seven years.

“You have done a phenomenal job; someone is going to have very large shoes to fill,” said Commissioner Peggy Littleton.

His efforts were not limited to Veterans Services. Mr. Tackett collaborated with local veteran organizations in 1999 to create the El Paso County Homeless Standdown Committee to coordinate the annual event and has served on the committee for 15 years. Since 2000, Mr. Tackett has served as President of the Colorado Veterans Resource Coalition, a non-profit organization to assist with veterans’ homeless issues, which is operated in collaboration with numerous other veteran service organizations

“I think I have the best job in the County, every day I get to help somebody,” Mr. Tackett said. “It's been a good 27 years for me. My staff – without them I could not have accomplished what we have accomplished. We're a very busy County and we have a lot of veterans to serve.”

The El Paso County Veteran Services has increased the yearly office visits from 5,448 in 2008 to 9,397 in 2014, a 190 percent increase in number of claims for veterans and their dependents. The El Paso County Veteran Services office as one of the most active offices in the United States.

“As a military wife, I know so many of our military veterans and their dependents count on the services and support provided by the County Veterans Services Office,” said Commissioner Sallie Clark.

Mr. Tackett was instrumental in the upcoming construction of a Veterans Cemetery in El Paso County that is anticipated to be open in 2017. He also served on the recently opened Veteran Affairs Clinic Naming Committee. Mr. Tackett coordinated with Home Depot to construct a Veterans Memorial at Bear Creek Regional Park in 2014 that honors El Paso County veterans and their outstanding service.

“It’s something special to help veterans,” said Commissioner Darryl Glenn. “You have definitely set the bar very high.”

County employees and others from the community praised Mr. Tackett for his wealth of knowledge and dedication, adding that he will be greatly missed.

“You’ve not just been the face of Veterans Services, but you’ve really gone to work for our veterans,” said Commissioner Dennis Hisey.

All El Paso County administrative and elected administrative offices and affiliated agencies, including El Paso County Public Health, the Department of Human Services, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center, Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center, CSU Extension, the El Paso County Public Trustee, Pikes Peak Regional Building, the offices of the 4th Judicial District Attorney and El Paso County Combined Courts will close at 3:00 p.m. Monday, February 23, 2015.

All El Paso County administrative and most elected administrative offices and affiliated agencies, including El Paso County Public Health, the Department of Human Services, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center, Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center, CSU Extension, the El Paso County Public Trustee, Pikes Peak Regional Building, the offices of the 4th Judicial District Attorney and El Paso County Combined Courts will have a two hour delay Monday, February 23, 2015. Offices are scheduled to open at 10:00 a.m.

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will be closed for non-essential personnel on Monday, February 23, 2015.

El Paso County Parks has initiated a master planning process for the final section of Ute Pass Regional Trail and is seeking public input. A public workshop will be held 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, to identify possible trail alignments and trailhead locations for the five mile trail corridor located west of Manitou Springs in the Cascade‐Chipita Park area. The meeting will be conducted at the Ute Pass Elementary School, 9230 Chipita Park Road, Cascade.

The workshop will be informational for residents and stakeholders and an opportunity to provide input on the Master Plan for the Regional Trail. A brief presentation will begin at 6 pm, followed by a small group breakout session and time for questions and comments.

Local Vendors Can Conveniently Access Bid Solicitations From Many Government Agencies

On March 3, 2015 El Paso County will join many other local government offices and agencies participating in the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System. This online procurement group provides local vendors with an easier and more economical way to access and compete for local government bids and offers participating government agencies access to a larger pool of competing vendors.

Vendor registration is free and El Paso County encourages all local vendors to take advantage of this new system. To receive access to bid solicitations from many local government agencies businesses are encouraged to register at: www.rockymountainbidsystem.com

All registered vendors receive:
• 24-hour access to local government opportunities
• Notification customized to the vendors’ products or services provided
• Reliable and timely delivery of notifications, addendums and documents

Local government agencies participating in the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing system include Academy School District 20, Colorado Springs School District 11, the City of Colorado Springs and Colorado Springs Utilities. Other large Colorado Counties participating include the City and County of Broomfield, Jefferson, Adams, Weld, Pueblo and the City and County of Denver.
“We’re excited about joining the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing system,” said El Paso County Contracts and Procurement Manager Eileen Gonzales. “This allows us to take advantage of new technology that makes the procurement process more efficient. Of course we’re always happy to answer questions in person and on the phone but we’re confident that the online system will make it much easier for everybody.”
Last year El Paso County issued contracts and purchase orders totaling more than $90 million. More than 81% of all contract purchases went to local vendors. Other Colorado suppliers received 18% of the total with less than 1% issued to out-of-state vendors.

Commissioners Participate in National Association of Counties Legislative Conference

The regularly scheduled Tuesday, February 24, 2015 Board of El Paso County Commissioners meeting has been canceled to allow Commissioners to participate in the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Legislative Conference.

The NACo Legislative Conference is expected to bring together some 2,000 county officials from across the country to focus on Federal legislative and policy issues impacting county governments. Attendees will hear from key Administration officials and members of Congress and they will attend informational sessions focusing on issues ranging from technology and innovation to disaster recovery.

While in Washington, commissioners from Colorado will meet with lawmakers and key Congressional and administration staff to discuss Federal issues of special interest to Colorado residents. These include the proposed EPA “Waters of the U.S.” Rule which would result in delays and higher costs for needed stormwater infrastructure improvements, the need for Congress to adopt multi-year transportation funding so counties can effectively plan for long term transportation needs and U.S. Forest Service funding to address Forest health initiatives and fire mitigation work.

The next regularly scheduled Board of El Paso County Commissioners meeting will be Tuesday, March 3, 2015 at 9 a.m. at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade Avenue. Meetings of the Board of County Commissioners can be viewed through live streaming at www.elpasoco.com by clicking on the link in the left side column marked, Live Meetings at Centennial Hall. Commissioners meetings are replayed the following evening on Comcast channel 17, the Pikes Peak Library District Channel.

El Paso County, CO, February 18, 2015 – The Board of El Paso County Commissioners at its regular meeting Tuesday approved an official Proclamation honoring Eagle Scout Cole Crumb for his project to improve a Manitou Springs meeting space that has served the community well during recent disasters.

Cole Crumb completed his Eagle Scout project in April 2014. His project involved replacing the carpet in the Community Hall at the Historic Community Congregation Church in Manitou Springs. “This Eagle Scout project improved a meeting space routinely used by various groups, schools and organizations and which served as a Red Cross Evacuation and Disaster Assistance Center for the Manitou Springs community during recent fires and floods,” said Commissioner Sallie Clark as she read the Proclamation into the record.

The Eagle Scout spent a full year in his efforts to raise the $10,000 needed to replace carpeting which had become a safety hazard. He solicited donations from fellow Scouts, family and friends, church and community members. When the fundraising was competed, he organized 30 fellow Scouts along with friends and family to remove and dispose of the old carpeting and complete the installation of the new carpeting.

Cole admitted that it was a lot of work and took longer than expected but, “it needed to be done.”

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was founded in 1910 on the premise that to be a good citizen you must provide service to others. The Eagle Scout Award is the highest award attainable in Boy Scouts, with only two percent of Scouts achieving this rank.

Earlier in the meeting, Commissioner Clark had briefly highlighted many of the community volunteer recovery efforts that have focused on healing the Waldo Canyon Fire burn scar reducing the risk of flash floods as a result of the scar. Cooperative work among many entities and organizations including Rocky Mountain Field Institute, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, the Coalition for the Upper South Platte and the Flying W Ranch have led to the completion of many important flood control projects and the work continues.

Commissioner Clark commented, “These community-based volunteer efforts show how great a community we live in when people are willing to give up their time on such an important effort.” More than 25,000 volunteer hours were devoted to a variety of recovery and mitigation efforts in 2014.

Class titles and dates are listed below. Classes will be conducted from 10:00 - noon on Saturdays at Devry University, 1175 Kelly Johnson Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80920. All classes will be repeated on Tuesdays from 2:00-4:00 PM at the NEW CSU Extension Office, 17 N. Spruce (just west of I-25 and Bijou) in Colorado Springs, 80905.

El Paso County, CO., February 17, 2015 – The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has named the City of Colorado Springs as 2014 Sponsor of the Year for the Colorado SBDC Network and El Paso County Resident Robin Roberts as 2014 Volunteer of the Year.

The City of Colorado Springs has given the SBDC consistent support for the last 10 years. The City provides funding through the Lodgers and Automobile Rental Tax each year to the SBDC understanding that the SBDC has a direct effect on supporting local businesses that are essential for tourism in our region. The City added support through social media and website information.

“The City is honored to receive this award and support the mission of SBDC in helping existing and new businesses grow,” said Chief of Staff, Steve Cox. “We value our relationship with the SBDC to help us accomplish our goal of being the most business friendly city in America.”

Robin Roberts, who is the President of Pikes Peak National Bank, has been a dedicated volunteer at the SBDC for the last four years. Ms. Roberts is the Chair of the Colorado Springs SBDC Advisory Board, Chair of Small Business Week and a sponsor of the Leading Edge program. As an Army Veteran herself Ms. Robert is dedicated to the Veterans in our region and volunteers her time to Boots to Business as well as ensuring the right resources are available to Veterans.

“She is the loudest voice for small business in our community,” said Aikta Marcoulier, Executive Director of the Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center. “Ms. Roberts puts her body where her mouth is. She doesn’t just talk about supporting small business, she actually shows up to the events, takes part on our panels as our banking/lending expert, and makes every consulting appointment she has with us and advisory board meeting. We appreciate Ms. Roberts for her ethics, her hours of consulting when she is extremely busy, her experience, expertise, and support.”

The Small Business Development Center is hosted by El Paso County and located at the El Paso County Citizens Service Center. The SBDC is also sponsored by UCCS College of Business, the U.S. Small Business Administration, City of Colorado Springs and CenturyLink. It offers business consulting and training to assist existing and new small businesses in El Paso, Park and Teller counties. For more information about the SBDC and services it offers, visit www.cssbdc.org or call 719-667-3803.

The public is invited to participate the next informational session on City for Champions, to be held at Studio Bee at the Pikes Peak Center.

This meeting will focus specifically on City for Champions impacts and opportunities for the creative community. Project and community leaders will provide updated information on the status of individual projects.

The El Paso County Fair Queen committee is currently seeking applications from candidates interested in becoming the 2015 El Paso County Fair Queen. Applications are due February 26.

The Fair Queen contest is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, at Swink Hall on the El Paso County Fairgrounds in Calhan. The committee is seeking young women between the ages of 18 and 22 to participate in the contest. The winner will represent the El Paso County Fair throughout the year with media interviews and a variety of public appearances throughout the region. The four contest categories are horsemanship, application, public speaking and personal interview. Contestants must reside in El Paso County.

Fair Queen contest application packets can be picked up at the Fairgrounds office in Calhan, Monday to Thursday, or online at www.elpasocountyfair.com. For more information on the Fair Queen contest call the Fairgrounds office, (719) 520-7880

Fair Queen Clinic Feb. 21
The 2015 Fair Queen Clinic is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 21, at Swink Hall on the El Paso County Fairgrounds. The clinic is for all young ladies ages 13-22 wanting to learn more about being an El Paso County Fair Queen. The clinic will provide valuable information and tips in all areas of the Fair Queen contest. All potential El Paso County applicants are strongly urged to attend. The cost is $20 and includes lunch.

To RSVP and for more information on the clinic call Pam Dawson at (719) 749-2342 by Feb. 18.

As of Monday, Feb. 9, drivers can expect traffic shifts on eastbound and westbound Fillmore Street from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for restriping and barrier placement. In addition, northbound and southbound I-25 will have double lane closures in place at Fillmore from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. for median barrier placement. The speed limit will be reduced through both segments while work is taking place.

Shoulder closures should be expected during daylight hours on the ramps and I-25 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is replacing the current diamond interchange with a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) where both directions of traffic on Fillmore will cross on the opposite side of the bridge (diagram below). It will also increase the vehicle capacity of the overpass by removing the left turn signal phase with a free-flow left turn movement.

“Building a DDI at Fillmore is giving us maximum bang for our buck,” said CDOT Resident Engineer Mark Andrew. “With free-flow and independent left turn lanes on Fillmore, it’ll require less of a bridge structure and, in turn, cost less. When it’s completed, traffic flow and safety will be enhanced on I-25, at the on and off-ramps, and on Fillmore.”

SEMA Construction Co. of Centennial is the contractor for the $15.1 million project. Funding includes $13 million from CDOT RAMP, $1 million from Colorado Springs (Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority), and $1.1 million from city federal funds. In addition, Colorado Springs completed the $7 million Chestnut Street realignment in 2014, allowing the interchange project to move forward.

In addition to a new overpass, the project includes extending the northbound on-ramp and southbound off-ramp, new traffic signals, lighting, bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways.

Full closures of I-25 will be required later this year to demolish the old bridge in phases. This work will take place at night to minimize traffic impacts. CDOT will distribute information regarding highway closures at least one week in advance.

“We’re well aware of the upcoming reconstruction at the Cimarron Interchange and we’ll be working closely with personnel from that project to make sure we don’t have simultaneous closures on I-25 to minimize impacts to the traveling public,” added Andrew.

The U.S. 24/Cimarron Street Project currently is scheduled to begin this spring.

Construction at Fillmore is scheduled for completion in spring 2016.

The Fillmore DDI will be the third one implemented on the state highway system. One is currently operating in Grand Junction at I-70/U.S. 6 & 50 and another is under construction at the U.S. 36 – Louisville/Superior exit near Boulder.

This project is receiving funding from RAMP – Responsible Acceleration of Maintenance and Partnerships. RAMP is better coordinating project expenditures and available funding. Under the program, CDOT will fund multi-year projects based on year of expenditure, rather than saving for the full amount of a project before construction begins.

County Assessor’s Office Can Provide Copies of Tax Statements Needed to Apply

HB14-1279 Concerning the creation of a state income tax credit to reimburse a business for personal property taxes paid in the state was signed into law in June of 2014. The bill creates § 39-22-537, C.R.S., a new law aimed at helping small businesses grow and expand in Colorado. The law provides an income tax credit for taxpayers with $15,000 (total actual value) or less worth of business personal property on which taxes are paid in Colorado during an income tax year commencing in 2015.

Personal Property is defined as everything which is the subject of ownership and which is not included in the term real property. Personal property includes machinery, equipment, and other articles used for in the business of a commercial or industrial operation.

Taxpayers that qualify for this income tax credit must submit a copy of their property tax statement to the Colorado Department of Revenue to receive the credit. If you have any questions or need assistance in obtaining a copy of your property tax statement, please contact the El Paso County Assessor’s Office Personal Property Department at 719-520-6610, or email ASRWEB@elpasoco.com.

All El Paso County administrative and elected administrative offices and affiliated agencies, including El Paso County Public Health, the Department of Human Services, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center, Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center, CSU Extension, the El Paso County Public Trustee, the offices of the 4th Judicial District Attorney and El Paso County Combined Courts will be closed Monday, February 16, 2015 in observance of the President’s Day holiday.

The El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s North Motor Vehicle Branch will be open as usual on Saturday, February 14, from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Colorado State University Extension is pleased to offer a workshop on how to successfully start seeds indoors. At this workshop, Colorado Master Gardeners Michele Ritchie and Brenda Wernsing will provide a one-hour lecture followed by Q&A. Then participants will plant vegetable, herb and/or flower seeds in a take home seed tray. The $20 fee covers training and all supplies.

Changes Include Overhead Transmission Lines and Reduction in Number of Turbines

The Board of County Commissioners at its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday approved a request for changes to the previously approved plan for the wind farm and transmission line east of Colorado Springs, in the Calhan area. The meeting Thursday, which ended shortly before midnight, was dedicated to formal consideration of the requested changes. The conclusion was a 4-0 vote in favor of those changes, with Commissioner Sallie Clark in Washington to testify on proposed federal water rules under consideration by a congressional committee.

Proponents of the planned wind farm began their initial discussions with landowners in an area that encompasses nearly 25,000 acres south of Highway 24 between Calhan and Ramah as early as 2007. The original plan, including approximately 147 turbines, received final approval from the Board of County Commissioners December 19, 2013.

The Board of El Paso County Commissioners had approved the original Golden West wind farm plan a little over a year ago following lengthy public hearings at both the El Paso County Planning Commission and the Board of County Commissioners. Since then the project has been acquired by NextEra Energy, one of the nation’s largest producers of renewable energy. NextEra operates a number of wind locations in Colorado including several near Limon.

Commissioner Peggy Littleton, in making the motion to approve the amended plan, noted the importance and difficulty of balancing the rights of all property owners. Commissioner Chair Dennis Hisey noted, “Though the wind farm was already approved, we wanted to make sure the requested changes to the plan were needed and made sense.” Changes approved yesterday included a reduction in the total number of turbines to built, replacement of some underground transmission lines with overhead facilities and rerouting lines south of Meadowlake Airport.

With more than 80 people signed in to speak at the meeting, Commissioner Amy Lathen noted, “This was a very difficult vote, knowing there was a lot at stake for citizens on both sides of the issue and only after hearing every person that wished to speak did we move forward to a decision.”

NextEra Energy has stated that it plans to begin construction next month.

On Monday, Feb. 9, drivers can expect traffic shifts on eastbound and westbound Fillmore Street from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for restriping and barrier placement. In addition, northbound and southbound I-25 will have double lane closures in place at Fillmore from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. for median barrier placement. The speed limit will be reduced through both segments while work is taking place.

Shoulder closures should be expected during daylight hours on the ramps and I-25 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is replacing the current diamond interchange with a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) where both directions of traffic on Fillmore will cross on the opposite side of the bridge (diagram attached below). It will also increase the vehicle capacity of the overpass by removing the left turn signal phase with a free-flow left turn movement.

“Building a DDI at Fillmore is giving us maximum bang for our buck,” said CDOT Resident Engineer Mark Andrew. “With free-flow and independent left turn lanes on Fillmore, it’ll require less of a bridge structure and, in turn, cost less. When it’s completed, traffic flow and safety will be enhanced on I-25, at the on and off-ramps, and on Fillmore.”

SEMA Construction Co. of Centennial, CO is the contractor for the $15.1 million project. Funding includes $13 million from CDOT RAMP*, $1 million from Colorado Springs (Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority), and $1.1 million from city federal funds. In addition, Colorado Springs completed the $7 million Chestnut Street realignment in 2014, allowing the interchange project to move forward.

In addition to a new overpass, the project includes extending the northbound on-ramp and southbound off-ramp, new traffic signals, lighting, bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways.

Full closures of I-25 will be required later this year to demolish the old bridge in phases. This work will take place at night to minimize traffic impacts. CDOT will distribute information regarding highway closures at least one week in advance.

“We’re well aware of the upcoming reconstruction at the Cimarron Interchange and we’ll be working closely with personnel from that project to make sure we don’t have simultaneous closures on I-25 to minimize impacts to the traveling public,” added Andrew.

The U.S. 24/Cimarron Street Project currently is scheduled to begin this spring.

Construction at Fillmore is scheduled for completion in spring 2016.

The Fillmore DDI will be the third one implemented on the state highway system. One is currently operating in Grand Junction at I-70/U.S. 6 & 50 and another is under construction at the U.S. 36 – Louisville/Superior exit near Boulder.

* This project is receiving funding from RAMP – Responsible Acceleration of Maintenance and Partnerships. RAMP is better coordinating project expenditures and available funding. Under the program, CDOT will fund multi-year projects based on year of expenditure, rather than saving for the full amount of a project before construction begins. For more information, including a list of RAMP project requests, please see our website: http://www.coloradodot.info/programs/RAMP

You know your business. You know your customers. You have an intrinsic sense of your place in the competitive landscape. Yet ... does your brand leverage the power of your company's vision, mission and assets?
Discover techniques to find the shortest path to brand clarity. As Creative Director of Andrew Hershberger Creative, a strategic marketing firm, Andrew will help you to understand, build and add value to your brand. This workshop will put on the path to defining your brand - to blend critical insight with creativity to drive the success of your brand. Learn how to clarify your core brand attributes and develop sound strategies to connect with your markets and customers, consistently and comprehensively and why your visual brand identity and your brand voice are crucial tools market your business for its greatest potential.

Taking the first step to starting your business can be difficult! This workshop will be a realistic starting point for all budding entrepreneurs. The hour and a half workshop will be PACKED and FAST PACED. At the end, you will have a good feel for the level of effort and commitment it will take to make your business successful. If you're serious about starting a business, you don't want to miss this workshop.

This is a great course for the small business owner, or for assistants, who primarily handle the finances! This interactive QuickBooks Pro (2015 Version) - Part 1 introductory course will cover: 1. How the software works and how to navigate through the program; 2. How to create a new Company with QuickBooks including settings preferences, setting open balance, and entering customers, vendors, and accounts; 3. How to enter vendor information, as well as descriptions & prices for products and services; 4. How to work with registers, including opening registers, making entries, and reconciliation; and 5. How to handle bills in QuickBooks, including how to enter & pay bills; entering discounts from vendors .

The Small Business Development Center is hosted by El Paso County and located at the El Paso County Citizens Service Center. The SBDC is also sponsored by UCCS College of Business, the U.S. Small Business Administration, City of Colorado Springs and CenturyLink. It offers business consulting and training to assist existing and new small businesses in El Paso, Park and Teller counties. For more information about the SBDC and services it offers, visit www.cssbdc.org or call 719-667-3803.

El Paso County Raceway will hold an informational meeting to discuss the 2015 racing season at the El Paso County Raceway. The meeting will begin at 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 in Swink Hall at the El Paso County Fairgrounds, 366 10th Street, Calhan.

The auto races for 2015 will take on a new look, a new logo, a new name "El Paso County Raceway," and a new race promoter; BST Promotions.

This meeting is scheduled for any and all race car drivers, crew members, volunteers, vendors and fans. Information presented at the meeting will include 2015 season rules, driver and car registration, safety requirements, club and division schedules and IMCA rules.

Those attending the meeting will have the opportunity to meet and greet the new race promoter as well some returning and some new and race officials. BST will also be looking for local liaisons to represent each of various race divisions to help grow the racing program.

For more information on this informational meeting please contact the El Paso County Fairgrounds office at 520-7880 or Joe Bellum at 720-404-0400.

El Paso County, CO, January 30, 2014 - El Paso County Commissioner Sallie Clark has been asked to testify in Washington on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 at a joint hearing before the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. The hearing is entitled, “Impacts of the Proposed Waters of the United States Rule on State and Local Governments.”

As First Vice President of the National Association of Counties (NACo), Commissioner Clark’s testimony will reflect the serious concerns of local government leaders across the country; that the proposed new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers rules are far overreaching and ignore the legitimate distinctions between rivers, streams, lakes and roadside ditches. “These new rules are intended to protect water quality but in many situations water quality will actually be worse because badly needed projects simply won’t get done,” Commissioner Clark said. “The proposed regulations are so broad that ordinary stormwater control, flood mitigation and repair projects which are routinely completed by local government agencies will be significantly delayed, resulting in higher costs and even more environmental damage.”

The new rules are of special concern in El Paso County because they would create costly delays for ongoing fire and flood recovery efforts and important pre-disaster preparations. Last September, the Board of El Paso County Commissioners adopted an official Proclamation expressing its opposition to the “Waters of the United States” rules. The BoCC opposition was submitted during the EPA Official Comment period for the proposed rules.

El Paso County works continuously with local business groups, Colorado Counties Inc. (CCI), the National Association of Counties (NACo) and others to monitor and access the impacts of proposed state and federal legislation and regulatory actions on county services and costs. “Because so many of the programs and services provided by county government are mandated and directed by state and federal agencies we have to know what’s happening on the national and state levels speak out when costly and unworkable rules like these our being proposed,” Commissioner Clark concluded.

Clerk’s Office Continues Support for Keep Carson Strong Ahead of Community Meeting

[Colorado Springs, Colo. – February 2, 2015] The El Paso County Clerk and Recorder’s Office will continue to support the Colorado Springs Regional Business Alliance’s (RBA) Keep Carson Strong campaign by encouraging county residents to Keep Carson Strong by participating in the campaign’s next phase of events. The next phase of the campaign will commence on Tuesday, February 3, as the RBA and the United States Army will co-host a community listening session to hear from the public about Fort Carson—their personal stories, their interest in maintaining the installation’s presence in the region, and their comments on proposed reductions in the military.

“I am proud to continue our office’s commitment to the Keep Carson Strong campaign and to the four other military installations in El Paso County,” stated Chuck Broerman, who took office as Clerk and Recorder on January 13. “From ensuring military members have the opportunity to vote, to making registering a vehicle more convenient, we continually evaluate and streamline our processes to support the military. Our efforts have led to exciting innovations and collaborations, such as our plan to open a new motor vehicle office on Fort Carson later this year. We encourage all who feel the same to participate in Tuesday’s events.”

“Fort Carson is the second largest employer in the state and contributes significantly to the economic and social status of the most populous county in the state,” continued Clerk Broerman. “A strong Fort Carson means a stronger county, region and state. We are proud to have the army base as our neighbor.”

Showing Your Support

The Regional Business Alliance is reaching out to the public to demonstrate their strong commitment to Fort Carson. Showing support for Fort Carson can be as easy as wearing green, as current as using Facebook and Twitter, or as actively involved as attending the public forum.

On February 3, El Paso County residents are asked to show support by:

Attending the Meeting: Attend the community listening session at Centennial Hall, 200 S. Cascade, 4:00-6:00 p.m. hosted by the RBA Military Affairs Council and the Army. This forum gives people an opportunity to voice their opinions on the effect Fort Carson has on the region and what should be factored into decisions on its future. Department of the Army and Fort Carson will have leaders attending to hear directly from our community.

E-mail: Email your comments in support of Fort Carson via this link. Fort Carson is working to ensure everyone can have a voice. All public input will be provided to the Army leadership for consideration in the review process for restructuring.

Wear Green: The whole city will be green to show support of the Army and its soldiers at Fort Carson.

Social Media: Use Facebook and Twitter to show your support and share your thoughts on the great value of Fort Carson to the Pikes Peak Region.

The Keep Carson Strong campaign began last summer with a postcard writing program for the community to express support for the base as the Department of Defense began a force reduction and restricting process. The Department of the Army is conducting its assessment of 30 installations throughout the country, including Fort Carson. Should the base be identified for a force reduction, the economic and community impact would be immeasurable.

The Clerk and Recorder’s Office also was actively involved in the first phase of the Keep Carson Strong campaign in August 2014, partnering with the Regional Business Alliance. Each of our offices helped distribute postcards that customers could sign and return that expressed support for Fort Carson and the military’s positive impact on the Pikes Peak Region. Thousands of regional residents signed and returned the postcards through the Clerk’s Office.

"The ESA board strives to provide the best ground ambulance service at a reasonable cost to the residents and visitors of the County,” said ESA Chair Carl Tatum. “Over the past few months, the ESA and AMR have worked with several fire districts to address ambulance response time concerns. The ESA is also working with area leaders, and looking to reach out nationally to experts in ground transport systems, so it may continue to improve the current ground transport system as the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented here in El Paso County."

The El Paso County Emergency Services Authority was created by Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Fountain and El Paso County. Creation of the ESA as a separate legal entity ensures a coordinated, effective and efficient emergency management system, including providing ambulance service and other related emergency medical services. It coordinates with state and other local governmental entities to provide maximally effective emergency services. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of the month at 3 p.m. at the Pikes Peak Regional Development Center, 2nd Floor Hearing Room, 2880 International Circle, Colorado Springs.

The 12-member board currently includes two emergency room physicians, four fire district representatives, one paramedic, three elected officials, a citizen representative and a senior citizen representative. A vacant position was filled in August by Ramah Mayor Keith McCafferty, with his alternate being Calhan Mayor Blair Bartling.

Listening Session to Discuss the Critical Mission and Regional Support for Fort Carson

El Paso County’s Centennial Hall will be hosting a Community Listening Session in support of Fort Carson Tuesday, February 3, 2014 starting at 4 p.m. The listening session, comes as the Army is analyzing potential reductions at 30 bases including a reduction of up to 16,000 personnel at Fort Carson. The session is intended to showcase the synergies that exist with other location military installations, educational institutions and multiple public, private and non-profit partnerships that work together in our community to support the critical mission of Fort Carson, its soldiers, their families and military veterans.

Reductions at Fort Carson would have a devastating economic impact on Colorado. The Community Listening Session will give state, county and city elected officials as well as business and industry representatives and others an opportunity to address senior leadership from the Department of the Army.

The Colorado Springs Regional Business Alliance and others are urging everyone to show support of Fort Carson by wearing green on February 3rd.

The listening session is open to the public and it will be broadcast online at: www.elpasoco.com Simply scroll down the left hand column of the homepage and click on “Live Meetings held at Centennial Hall” (BoCC). It will also be rebroadcast at a later date on Comcast Channel 17. Written comments and questions must be submitted online at http://media.carson.army.mil/session/default.aspx

The Board of County Commissioners will dedicate most of its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, February 5, 2014 to formal consideration of a request for changes to the previously approved plan for a wind farm east of Colorado Springs, in the Calhan area.

The Board of El Paso County Commissioners approved the original Golden West wind farm plan a little over a year ago following lengthy public hearings at both the El Paso County Planning Commission and the County Commissioners. Since then the project has been acquired by NextEra Energy, one of the nation’s largest producers of renewable energy. NextEra operates several wind locations in Colorado including several near Limon.

Proponents of the proposed wind farm began their initial discussions with landowners in an area that encompasses nearly 25-thousand acres south of Highway 24 between Calhan and Ramah as early as 2007. The original plan, including approximately 147 turbines, received final approval from the Board of County Commissioners December 19, 2013.

Following the sale of the Golden West interest in the wind farm to NextEra Energy, the applicant requested approval of several changes to the approved plan including a reduction in the total number of turbines, replacement of some underground transmission lines with overhead facilities and rerouting south of Meadowlake Airport.

Following a lengthy public hearing on January 6, the El Paso County Planning Commission issued a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners to deny proposed changes to the original plan. The proposed changes now move to the Board of County Commissioners for final determination.

“This is certainly one of the more challenging land use issues,” said Commissioner Chair Dennis Hisey. “The interests of ranchers and farmers who are counting on income from turbines on their property must be balanced with the interests of their neighbors who may have transmission lines and turbines nearby or in their line of sight but will receive no income. And there is also a whole menu of issues ranging from economic development and jobs to energy and the environment to be considered as well.”

The Board of El Paso County Commissioners today formally accepted the transfer of the 1192 acre Jones Park area from Colorado Springs Utilities to El Paso County for parks and open space purposes.

The Jones Park area originally developed along with the 1859 Gold Rush. At one time there were toll roads, rental cabins and fishing ponds established in the area to serve travelers on one of the first routes to Pikes Peak. Jones Park hiking trails remain popular with local residents although it has been technically “off limits” because of the close proximity of the trails to Bear Creek which has been identified as a home to the Greenback Cutthroat Trout, which is on the EPA list of “threatened species.”

“This is truly a historic and scenic treasure and we greatly appreciate the Colorado Springs City Council's support for maintaining local ownership,” said Commissioner Sallie Clark, whose District 3 includes the Jones Park area. “In conveying Jones Park to El Paso County, City Council has recognized that we will work diligently through long established partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service and many local stakeholders to address environmental concerns and re-open Jones Park to a variety of recreational uses. This is just an amazing property, our intent is to keep it in its natural state and open it up with proper management and appropriate access to address the environmental concerns.”

Community Services Director Tim Wolken noted that acquisition of the Jones Property is consistent with the County’s Strategic Plan and Parks Master Plan. “We look to preserve open space which has unique cultural, historic and natural resources,” Wolken said. “With the creek running through the area and its unique history it certainly fits within those guidelines.” The county will place a conservation easement over the property to assure that it will remain public open space in perpetuity. Initial funding for improvements to area will come from 1A Park funds that were recently approved by voters, as well as El Paso County Parks Development funds and a grant from the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) which will be transferred to the County from Colorado Springs Utilities.

El Paso County has a successful history of managing sites similar to Jones Park and has received national recognition for its parks planning process. It collaborates regularly with non-profit groups like the Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Mile High Youth Corps to complete construction, restoration and management of multi-use trail systems and looks forward to involving non-profit organizations with Jones Park trail improvement projects.

The Pikes Peak Workforce Center has teamed with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) to encourage local employers to hire veterans. Employers can explore recruiting tools and HR strategies to find valuable veteran talent at a day-long event on February 26, 2015.

WHO: Employers in El Paso and Teller Counties, who want to understand why hiring veterans makes good business sense.

WHAT: Series of workshops/breakout sessions to explore recruiting tools and HR strategies to find, hire, and retain veterans. Topics to be covered include:

• Why Hire a Veteran: the Value a Veteran Brings to You Company
• Post-Traumatic Stress: Addressing the Myths
• Strategic Approach to Veteran Talent Management
• Federal Contracting: Keep that Contract by Staying in Compliance
• Are You Sure You Understand All There is to Know About the American with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Citizens Soldiers: Good Business Sense

Note: a complete agenda with workshop descriptions is attached.

WHEN: Thursday, February 26, 2015 from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: The Pinery at the Hill, 775 West Bijou, Colorado Springs, 80905

.HOW: There is no charge for employers to attend; a light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To register go to go to www.ppwfc.org, click under Business Services.

The Pikes Peak Workforce Center connects vital businesses with work-ready job seekers and employer-driven services. More information about the Pikes Peak Workforce Center can be found online at www.ppwfc.org.

The Pikes Peak Workforce Center invites employers and hiring managers with open positions to its Spring Job Fair.

WHAT: PPWFC Spring Adult Job Fair
WHY: PPWFC connects employers with work-ready job seekers. The Job Fair is the best way to meet, accept résumés, and pre-screen candidates for open positions, in one place, at one time. The PPWFC 2014 Fall Job attracted over 1,800 attendees and the 2014 Spring Job Fair attracted over 2,000 job seekers.
WHEN: Thursday, April 2, 2015 is open from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Doors open at 9:30 a.m. for Veterans only)

About PPWFC
The Pikes Peak Workforce Center connects vital businesses with work-ready job seekers and employer-driven services. More information about the Pikes Peak Workforce Center can be found online at www.ppwfc.org.

Colorado Springs, CO January 23, 2015 – 4,292 people including 2,634 children were served at Feed the Children 2014. The El Paso Board of County Commissioners recognized the nearly 500 people who volunteered their time and donated money and resources to make the event a success.

Feed the Children is a partnership between the El Paso County Department of Human Services, Springs Church, Mercy Springs, Discover Goodwill, the Feed the Children Organization out of Oklahoma and a long list of other donors and volunteers. It is a one day event just before Christmas where the families already receiving help from the Department of Human Services are able to enjoy a day of celebration, receive food, toys, books, coats and toiletries as well as a variety of activities like getting pictures with Santa, making crafts with Home Depot, dental and vision screenings, family portraits and haircuts.

“Feed the Children is an outstanding example of the positive results that can be achieved when the government, faith based community, businesses and nonprofits work together and has now become a national model being shared around the country,” said Commissioner Peggy Littleton.

“We will be there in whatever way we can to help those in need,” said Vice-Chair Amy Lathen.

“We participate in this because it supports our mission,” said Erica Skolasinski from Discover Goodwill. “For one day, the financial burden carried by parents is lifted.”

Planning is already underway for Feed the Children 2015 scheduled for next December. If you are interested in volunteering or donating please contact Rebecca Jacobs at 444-8191 or RebeccaJacobs@elpasoco.com.

El Paso County, CO, Jan. 23, 2015 – Business owners and managers have an opportunity to learn what you must know to effectively work with prime contractors from business development phase, to proposal preparation, contract award, and beyond. Understanding the challenges and opportunities can be the difference in success or failure in your business plans.

The event is hosted by the Colorado Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) in conjunction with the National Defense Industrial Association, Colorado Springs Small Business Development Center and Pikes Peak Workforce Center. The panel is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28th from 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. at the Pikes Peak Regional Development Center.

The event is free and open to all businesses wishing to learn more about doing business with government agencies but seating is limited so reservations are required.

Colorado PTAC is a no-cost, confidential resource for any Colorado business interested in pursuing government contracts (federal, state or local government agencies and prime contractors). PTAC provides, information, education and assistance throughout the government procurement process; assisting with registrations, finding opportunities, marketing to the government, replying to solicitations, matchmaking between prime and subcontractors and answering questions during contract execution in such areas as invoicing, compliance and performance management.

El Paso County, CO, January 23, 2015 – To enhance the programs at the El Paso County Department of Human Services (DHS) designed to help families achieve self-sufficiency and protect children, DHS will implement a substance abuse screening program for those receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) also known as Colorado Works. To qualify for Colorado Works an individual must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien, meet the resource and income guidelines and have a dependent child. To receive their benefits individuals are required to take part in work participation programs designed to get them back into the workforce.

“We must be sure that TANF dollars are not supporting drug use,” said Commissioner Amy Lathen. “We want to make sure the families we are helping are doing everything in their power to achieve self-sufficiency as efficiently as possible and are able to properly care for their children. If folks are clean, this will not impact them. If they are not, they need to get help in order to receive TANF.”

Under this policy if there’s reasonable suspicion that an individual may be abusing substances, which reasonable suspicion may be based on any of the following criteria, the individual may be required to participate in a substance abuse screening by a certified addiction counselor in order to stay in the TANF program.

Criteria for substance abuse screening:
- Verbal or written self-declaration; or
- Chronic missed Colorado Works/TANF appointments (3 in a 6 month period); or
- Federal TANF Time clock at 24 months (individuals are lifetime limited to 60 months on TANF); or
- Presence of physical symptoms such as but not limited to impairment of motor function, slurred speech, incoherent or irrational mental state, and/or smell of marijuana or alcohol; or
- Child Protection referral indicating suspected substance abuse; or
- Non-compliance with the Colorado Works IRC (Individual Responsibility Contract) without good cause

If an individual tests positive for substance abuse a treatment plan will be required as part of their Individual Responsibility Contract. If the individual refuses treatment they will no longer be eligible for TANF in El Paso County.

On average each month in 2014 about 2,283 families received TANF benefits in El Paso County.

Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Center's four-part training prepares you to be an environmental education program leader for school field trips and nature center events. Become a part of a long standing organization and legacy. Reservations required.

Active Adults Nature Club -Trail Talk

Saturday, February 7, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Get to know some of the popular and less known trails in the Pikes Peak Region. We'll cover trail distance, difficulty, elevation gain, amenities, best time of year or day to hike, hand out maps, and much more. Bring your questions: the pros at Trails and Open Space Coalition will lead the discussion. $3 per member, $4 per non-member. Reservations required.

Sweet Candy Company Murder Mystery

Saturday, February 14, 6:00 p.m.

Join Bear Creek Nature Center and Red Herring Productions for a sweet evening that's sure to end your Valentine's Day date with a bang! Pull out your 1950's fashion from the closet or raid the nearest thrift shop for this themed event. You'll be transported back to the era of Dragnet where you'll be asked to solve a murder that happens right before your eyes. Fine wines, dinner and sweet desserts included. $55 per person. 1950 attire not required. Limited space. Reservations required.

Come and craft an edible cone! We’ll kick off the class learning about evergreens and the differences between spruces and pines. Then, we’ll craft an edible, snowy, chocolate pine cone. We’ll wrap up our course outside, exploring Bear Creek’s evergreens, where you can test out your new knowledge on spruces and pines. $5 per member, $6 per non-member. Reservation required.

Little Wonders: Oh, Deer!

Thursday, February 26, 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Discover the world of nature with your 2 or 3 year-old. Interactive activities and a short hike make this the perfect introduction to the outdoors for your child. ($3/person including adults & siblings, reservations required, 520-6387)

Sustainability Series: Keeping Backyard Chickens

Saturday, February 28, 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Thinking about keeping chickens in the city? Come learn about all the things you'll need to consider before adding a flock to your backyard. We'll discuss coop requirements, feed, basic hygiene, winter precautions, and more. Meet a live, happy hen and find out if backyard chickens are right for you! $3 per member and $4 per non-member. Reservations required.

Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Center's four-part training prepares you to be an environmental education program leader for school field trips and nature center events. Become a part of a long standing organization and legacy. Reservations required.

Fountain Creek Nature Adventures

Fabulous Five Senses: Thursday, February 5, 10-11:30 a.m.

Children ages 3-6, with an adult, will enjoy puppet show or stories, crafts, hands-on activities, and discovery time on the trail. ($4.00 per person, reservations required, 520-6745.)

Twos & Threes Outdoors

What’s Wild and What’s Not?: Thursday, February 12, 10-11:15 a.m.

Share in the joy of your 2 or 3 year-old child’s discovery as he or she enjoys a story and an exploration hike outdoors. ($3.00 for each participant including adults and siblings, reservations required, 520-6745.

Winter Night Sky For Beginners

Friday, February 6, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Join Professor Moonbeam to learn the patterns and locations of stars and other night sky objects during an indoor presentation. Afterwards, we will go outside to locate stars and constellations visible in the winter sky. If you have one, bring a small red-lens flashlight and dress warmly. $3/member, $4/non-member. Reservations required, 719-520-6745.

Kritter Karavan

Saturday, February 14, 10-11:00 a.m.

Do you love animals? Spend some time on Valentine’s Day with Kathy Beers of Kritter Karavan for a hands-on look at many exotic animals. Kathy is a licensed exotic animal rescue professional and a retired teacher. You may have a close encounter with a tortoise, hedgehog, chinchilla, bearded dragon and more! $3/member, $4/non-member. Reservations required. 719-520-6745

Drawing Wildlife With Mr. Rick

Saturday, February 28, 10-11:30 a.m.

Nature’s more fun when you share it with someone! Learn to draw your favorite animals, step-by-step with Mr. Rick. Nature journals and colored pencils are provided. Followed by a fox-walk with staff to look for animal homes and signs in the park. Add to your journal as you spend time outside watching wildlife. Rick Flores is a cartoon artist and nature center volunteer who can make a fun time out of thin air! $3/member, $4/non-member. Reservations required. 719-520-6745

El Paso County, CO, January 22, 2015 – The Board of El Paso County Commissioners approved a Proclamation at its regular meeting Thursday, January 15, that promotes the creation of a regional food policy board.

“Issues including food production, processing, distribution, and access, significantly affect the public health, land use, economy and quality of life of the Colorado Springs and El Paso County region,” said Vice-Chair Amy Lathen as she read the Proclamation into the record. “There is no existing organization or body dedicated to addressing the implications of local government policy, programs, operations, and land use related to the food system and its corresponding impacts on the community.”

Community members have expressed support for the creation of a Community Advisory Board on Food Policy to provide ongoing analysis and recommendations to local governments regarding policies, programs, operations and land use regulations affecting local food issues.

A group of local community members has worked for the past year to assess issues related to the local food system, to include hosting community meetings, attending Local Food Week events, partnering with existing work groups and coalitions, and working with El Paso County Health Department and the CSU Extension. The group seeks to improve the local food system by building awareness among residents regarding nutrition, food skills and the source of their food; addressing high rates of hunger and barriers preventing access to affordable, nutritious food; and reviewing urban land use policies and regulatory issues

“Over 30 communities in Colorado already have food policy advisory boards,” City Councilwoman Jill Gaebler said. She added that hopefully the concept would expand into more communities. Goals include promoting legislation that will reduce barriers to local food production, as well as encouraging the use of vacant land for community gardens. “This board will be a community hub for information and education around local food,” she said. The board may be formed as early as April.

Lathen said she looked forward to hearing recommendations from the board. “Working together regionally is so critical in so many areas,” she said. “The food sector is important to the economy of El Paso County, and a vibrant and resilient local food system protects our natural resources and contributes significantly to the environmental and economic well-being of the region.”

Would you like to raise your own poultry and flavorful eggs? Join the movement toward homegrown food through backyard chicken farming.

The Colorado State University (CSU) Extension office is hosting a workshop to educate the public on the care and management of poultry within city limits. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 11, beginning at 6:00 p.m., in the Ed Carly Meeting Room of the CSU Extension office, 17 North Spruce St. – 2nd floor. Register by Thursday, Feb. 5.

Join CSU Extension for an interactive session on raising your own fresh eggs. We will have guest presentations from Dawn Wheeler, a local poultry enthusiast and 4-H Poultry Project Leader, and Officer Shane from Animal Law Enforcement. Topics that will be covered include: Species and Breed selection, care and health, managing chickens in a limited area, housing, egg production, common parasites and city policies and ordinances.

Chickens can easily earn their keep by offering many benefits, including fresh eggs and reducing insects in the yard. For children, chickens can be a fun and educational experience that brings them closer to nature.

El Paso County, CO, January 21, 2015 – The Pikes Peak Regional Building Department (RBD) wants to citizens to learn about the threat of carbon monoxide and how to mitigate trouble.

The RBD is hosting a Carbon Monoxide Safety Meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2015, at the Pikes Peak Regional Development Center Hearing Room, 2880 International Circle.

Carbon monoxide is highly toxic, and every year it claims hundreds of lives across the country and sends over 50,000 poisoning victims a year to emergency rooms. It is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas. It is generated by engines, furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces. It occurs naturally with the burning of wood, gasoline, diesel, charcoal, propane, natural gas and other common fuels. Faulty equipment, misuse, blocked exhaust systems and inadequate sources of fresh air can quickly result in dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in all types of buildings.

“A lot of things in your home and elsewhere can produce carbon monoxide,” said Bob Dwyer, training director for the Carbon Monoxide Safety Association. “We need to be proactive to protect our families and our citizens.”

Dwyer will present detailed information, including what can be considered normal levels of CO and how much is too much. The health effects of CO poisoning and how to recognize symptoms will also be covered.

The safety meeting is free, but space is limited to the first 100 registrants. To register, contact Linda at 719-327-2989 or linda@pprbd.org.

Carbon monoxide build-up is not the same as a natural gas leak, although both are dangerous. A distinct “odor of rotten eggs” is added to natural gas to warn of leaks but carbon monoxide is odorless. For more information on carbon monoxide safety, visit the Carbon Monoxide Safety Association (COSA) at www.cosafety.org

Some Tips to Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning
• When purchasing a CO detector, be sure it conforms to Underwriters Laboratories standard (UL) 2034 or is American Gas Association certified. Follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions. NOTE: The U.L. 2034 Listed alarms are high level alarms. People with respiratory or heart problems and others who want to be warned about carbon monoxide in their homes and buildings before high levels are detected should look into low level carbon monoxide alarms but “low level” alarms are more expensive and will sound off more frequently.
• Check previously installed CO detectors for expiration or manufactured dates and replace as needed.
• Have a qualified professional annually inspect heating all fuel-burning appliances. Ask to make sure that the inspection includes a measurement of carbon monoxide levels.
• Do not operate fuel burning appliances, vehicles, gasoline powered generators, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, snow blowers, unvented space heaters in an attached garage without approved venting systems to get combustion gasses safely outside.
• Never use a gas range oven for heat. Use the exhaust fan to carry the fumes outside.
• Have a qualified professional regularly inspect a fuel-burning fireplace for proper ventilation.

Symptoms
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning vary by the amount of CO absorbed into the bloodstream. Children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart problems are at greater risk. Trained medical professionals can check patients for CO poisoning with a simple test but diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning based solely on symptoms is not reliable.

El Paso County Parks is hosting a public meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2015, to review the draft master plan for the development and future use of the 215-acre site that is Falcon Regional Park. The park is located west of Eastonville Road and north of Falcon High School. This is the third of three public meetings designed to engage citizens and other stakeholders in the master planning process. The Park Advisory Board and the Board of County Commissioners will review the plan at public hearings in February.

The January 28 meeting will be held at the Meridian Ranch Recreation Center, 10301 Angeles Road, Peyton, CO 80831. The agenda will include a summary of the three concept alternatives for the park presented at the January 7 meeting along with citizen input received, a presentation of the final plan for the park, and a recap of next steps. Attendees will be encouraged to share their observations on the master plan. Maps will be on display.

For more information about the Falcon Regional Park Master Plan, please contact either Tamara Baxter with NES, Inc. via email at tbaxter@nescolorado.com or by phone at (719) 884-1371or Elaine Kleckner at the Community Services/Planning Division via email at elainekleckner@elpasoco.com or by phone at (719) 520-6999.

The El Paso County Park Advisory Board honored four community donors as 2014 Partners in the Park with commemorative plaques of appreciation.

The 2014 Partners in the Park are:
• Robert & Ellen Hostetler for Fox Run Regional Park: The Hosteltler’s are our founding partner and have been with us since 2009.
• GE Johnson Construction Company for Bear Creek Regional Park: They have been partners for the past two years. GE Johnson also constructed a new bridge in the park in 2013.
• Hueberger Motors, Inc. for Bear Creek Dog Park and Fox Run Dog Park: Hueburger Motors has supported the Bear Creek Dog Park since 2010 and added the Fox Run Dog Park in 2013.
• FedEx for Black Forest Regional Park: FedEx is our newest partner in 2014 .

“A prospering community wouldn’t be complete without a quality park system,” said Dennis Hisey, Chair of the Board El Paso County Commissioners. “These valuable corporate and individual partnerships help us keep the parks a treasured public amenity for the residents of El Paso County.”

The “Partners in the Park” Program was created in 2009 to provide financial support for a respective park. All donations are used exclusively for El Paso County Parks and to preserve open space, sustain park amenities or ensuring ongoing support for a specific park. Donations are tax deductible.

Partner benefits include signage at the park entrance, Partner name on the County Parks website, usage of a pavilion and formal recognition at the Parks Advisory Board.

“Without the generous contributions of our citizens, community partners and a multitude of volunteers, we couldn’t operate our County Parks as efficiently or effectively as we do,” said Community Outreach Coordinator Dana Nordstrom. “The Partners in the Park program is a prime example of El Paso County’s many public-private collaborations aimed at maximizing County resources while minimizing the cost to citizens.”

If you or your company would like to support ongoing operations and maintenance of a favorite park, trail or nature center or to learn more about the Partners in the Park program, please contact Dana Nordstrom, at (719) 520-6983 or dananordstrom@elpasoco.com.

Decision Preserves Local Control and Management With Continued Access and Improvements

On Tuesday, Jan. 13, the Colorado Springs City Council approved the transfer of the Jones Park area within the Bear Creek Watershed to El Paso County.

The approximately 1,172 acre site has been under the management of Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) for more than 50 years as part of the city water system. CSU staff originally recommended that the area be placed under the control of the U.S. Forest Service as federal land. But when they learned of the plan to designate the area under federal control, County Commissioners and interest citizens were concerned that access to the popular recreation area could be lost. Talks were then initiated between the County and CSU, which led to the decision this week by City Council to transfer local ownership of the land to El Paso County.

“We greatly appreciate the Colorado Springs City Council's support of maintaining local ownership for the Jones Park property and moving plans forward for renewed public access,” said Commissioner Sallie Clark, who represents District 3 which includes Jones Park. “Soon, El Paso County will welcome our region's diverse recreational enthusiasts to enjoy this historic and scenic treasure. Our continuing partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, the City of Colorado Springs and local stakeholders to work on increasing citizen access to Jones Park is a community value that can easily be described with one word—priceless.”

Acquisition of the Jones Property is consistent with the County’s Strategic Plan and Parks Master Plan which include expansion of the regional multi-use trail system and additional public open space. Continued local ownership of the site will give residents the opportunity to provide additional input into the planning for future use, preservation and management of the area. Funding for improvements will come from 1A Park funds that were recently approved by voters and a grant from the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) which will be transferred to the County from CSU after the formal ownership change in mid-February.

El Paso County has a successful history of managing sites similar to Jones Park and has received national recognition for its parks planning process. It collaborates regularly with non-profit groups like the Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Mile High Youth Corps to complete construction, restoration and management of multi-use trail systems and looks forward to involving non-profit organizations with Jones Park trail improvement projects.

Activities Planned Around the Community this Weekend and on Monday Holiday

The Board of El Paso County Commissioners remembered the legacy and memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during its regular meeting on Thursday.

“The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was born on January 15, 1929, and dedicated his life to promoting peace, freedom, equality and justice for all through non-violent means,” said Commissioner Peggy Littleton as she read the Proclamation into the record. On August 28, 1963, the Rev. Dr. King delivered a historic speech at the Lincoln Memorial which called for an end to racism in the United States, saying “I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”

Representatives from many local and regional organizations attended the meeting and thanks commissioners for honoring Dr. King.

“Dr. King showed us a better way. He changed a lot of lives, including mine,” said Bill Gamble, with New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church

Joe Barrera, co-chair of the Black/Latino Coalition, said: “This is a caring community and an inclusive community. We still have to make progress.”

Littleton urged all citizens to apply to join County boards and commissions, and thanked the visiting organizations for their ongoing encouragement.

The Commissioners recognized Monday, January 19, 2015 as Martin Luther King, Jr., Day and honored all the accomplishments and sacrifices of those fighting for equality.

“This is a place where anyone can achieve the American dream and we are following the legacy of Dr. King,” said Commissioner Darryl Glenn.

Events are planned for the weekend and on the holiday. The annual All Peoples’ Breakfast is at 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2015 at the Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center 825 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado College. At 7 p.m. in Armstrong Theatre inside Armstrong Hall, 14 E. Cache La Poudre St., the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble will perform. Both events are open to the public, and the breakfast costs $7.

The El Paso County Board of Commissioners is seeking community-minded citizen volunteers to serve on the El Paso County Citizen Budget Oversight Committee (CBOC). Applications for the open position are due by January 30, 2015.

The El Paso County Citizen Budget Oversight Committee (CBOC) is an ad hoc committee established by the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) to review the overall financial condition of the County, review the program budgets, prioritize each of these programs, and to ensure the County maintains compliance with federal and state mandates, accomplishes the goals outlined in the County Strategic Plan, and provides program funding recommendations in an executive summary to the BoCC.

The CBOC is composed of twenty-one voting members representing a cross section of the community. The voting members are citizen appointments and shall not be full-time or part-time employees nor shall be elected officials of El Paso County, Fourth Judicial District, the Pikes Peak Library District and municipalities within El Paso County. An exception to the above, no more than four of the voting members shall be retirees from El Paso County. Voting members in the categories of BoCC appointees, County-Wide Elected Official appointees, and Citizen appointees are appointed for two-year terms.

CBOC is seeking one citizen representative to represent the areas of General Business/Banking.

The volunteer application is located at www.elpasoco.com and can be accessed by clicking on the “Volunteer Boards” link. Applicants are asked to reference the board and position they wish to represent and include a mailing address and daytime phone number. Send completed applications and letter of interest and/or résumés to:

The El Paso County Board of Commissioners is seeking community-minded citizen volunteers to serve on the El Paso County Housing Authority. Applications for the open position are due by January 30, 2015.

The El Paso County Housing Authority was established by the Board of County Commissioners in 1993 to help promote the availability of decent, safe and sanitary dwelling accommodations in the county for persons of low to moderate income. The authority advises the Board of County Commissioners on matters regarding the issuance of bonds for the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of single- and multi-family residential housing to provide more affordable housing opportunities for residents. In addition, the authority manages the Housing Trust Fund, which provides funding to community-based organizations for innovative housing-related programs, and contracts with the county to administer a rehabilitation program for single-family dwellings.

The Housing Authority consists of six members appointed by the Board of County Commissioners for five-year terms. Terms are unlimited per the bylaws.

Housing Authority meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at noon in the County Office Building, 200 S Cascade Avenue, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Special meetings may be scheduled as necessary. The Housing Authority is currently seeking one Mortgage Finance Member from El Paso County.

The volunteer application is located at www.elpasoco.com and can be accessed by clicking on the “Volunteer Boards” link. Applicants are asked to reference the board and position they wish to represent and include a mailing address and daytime phone number. Send completed applications and letter of interest and/or résumés to:

El Paso County, CO, January 15, 2015 – The Board of El Paso County Commissioners at its regular meeting Thursday gave final approval to a revised County ordinance to regulate open burning activities in unincorporated areas of El Paso County.

The Open Burning Ordinance was requested earlier this year by Black Forest residents who were alarmed to see large piles of slash and debris being burned near their homes. For some, it brought back nightmares from the devastating 2013 Black Forest Fire. The ordinance has been discussed during several Board work sessions and interested citizens have shared their concerns at BoCC meetings.

Effective now, the ordinance requires a County burn permit to assure that the Sheriff’s Office, El Paso County Public Health and all appropriate fire protection districts are properly notified in advance and that sufficient safeguards are in place to ensure public health and safety.

Open Burning Air Quality Permits, which are already required by state law, will continue to be administered by El Paso County Public Health. The ordinance provides that once an Open Burning Air Quality Permit is obtained from El Paso County Public Health, a request for an El Paso County Open Burning Permit will automatically be sent to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

Those who receive permits shall make reasonable efforts to notify their neighbors before the open burn. When the date and time of an open burn is decided, the permit recipient calls El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at 719-390-5555 thus notifying responsible fire agencies. Although it is not yet available, the County will maintain a website that lists all addresses with active Open Burn permits.

The County ordinance also establishes restrictions necessary to preserve public safety and procedures to inform residents of planned open burn activities. In addition to the requirements outlined in the County Ordinance, open burns must comply with all state and local fire district rules and regulations. They must be at least 50 feet away from any buildings or combustible fences and be directly attended by a competent person with appropriate extinguishing equipment available for immediate use.

Open burning of slash is a low-cost and effective way to mitigate wildland fire fuels. The ordinance seeks to strike a balance that protects health and safety but still encourages property owners to get rid of dead wood and brush which is a fire hazard on their land. Open burn permits can be
revoked at any time.

The El Paso County Parks is the beneficiary of two grants from Great Outdoors Colorado that will fund projects to be performed by Mile High Youth Corps during 2015.

The first grant, valued at $17,550, will fund MHYC for three weeks of trail improvements on Fountain Creek Regional Trail. The MHYC crew will restore, repair and improve 1.7 miles trail. The crew will reconstruct damaged sections, reinforce and stabilize braided and eroded sections, repair nearly 320 feet of broken fence and remove noxious weeds. Work will begin in June along the Fountain Creek Regional Trail between Stratmoor Valley Park and Ceresa Park.

The second grant, valued at $37,550, will fund MHYC for five weeks of work for a saw crew to perform duties for the Black Forest Area Forest Management and Restoration Project. The crew will implement forest management activities within Black Forest Regional Park, Pineries Open Space and Homestead Ranch Regional Park to include dead standing tree removal and forest thinning treatments. Crews will begin restoration work at the end of May.

“These are two great projects for our County parks and trails, and for our youth,” said Chair of the Board of County Commissioners Dennis Hisey. “Connecting local youth with employment opportunities in a meaningful way is very important. The kids get to work outdoors in our parks – that is a great summer job.”

Funds for these projects were awarded by Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), which receives a portion of Colorado Lottery proceeds, to the Colorado Youth Corps Association for use by accredited youth corps. The goal of the program is to employ youth and young adults (ages 14-25) throughout the state on critical outdoor recreation and land conservation projects in partnership with local governments and open space agencies.

El Paso County Public Health, in partnership with the State, other local public health officials, and Penrose Hospital, have identified nearly 300 people who may have been exposed to a patient with measles in Colorado Springs in early January.

Public Health has been providing guidance to those exposed and assuring that those who are most at risk of getting measles are appropriately monitored or quarantined, due to the contagiousness of the disease.

El Paso County Public Health has been notified of an individual who traveled to Colorado Springs in late December and tested positive for measles at the state laboratory on January 7, 2015.

The individual tested positive for measles after traveling to Disneyland in California in mid-December, where public health officials believe the patient was exposed to the virus. At least 9 other cases of measles have recently been identified in other states with travel to Disneyland or Disney California Adventure Park during mid-December.

Two El Paso County residents have been hospitalized with influenza (flu), according to El Paso County Public Health. These cases are the first reported influenza hospitalizations in El Paso County this flu season.

Public Health urges anyone 6 months of age and older to get flu vaccination now. The flu vaccine is safe and offers the best protection currently available against flu.

This week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the first travel-associated case of the Ebola virus in the United States, in a patient in Texas. Colorado has no cases of Ebola.

El Paso County Public Health, in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), are following CDC guidance in Ebola surveillance. Early recognition is critical to controlling the spread of Ebola.

El Paso County Public Health confirmed Tuesday, Sept. 16 that a wild rabbit in northeast Colorado Springs died of tularemia infection, and are asking residents to remain cautious around wild animals.

The rabbit was tested after a resident in the Park Vista subdivision, located near Austin Bluffs Parkway and Stetson Hills Boulevard, found several dead wild rabbits near a property and notified Public Health.

Laboratory tests confirmed the animal died of tularemia, also known as “rabbit fever.”

El Paso County, Colo. — Deputy Director, Dan Martindale will serve as the interim Public Health Director of El Paso County Public Health until a candidate search is completed and a permanent replacement is appointed. A unanimous decision was made in a special meeting held by the El Paso County Board of Health (BOH) this afternoon. “Mr. Martindale has served as the agency’s deputy director for three and a half years, and has over 30 years experience in public health and non-profit management,” said BOH President, Kari Kilroy. Mr.